Sexual Assault Advocate Training Manual - Texas Association ...

S E X U A L A S S A U L T A D V O C A T E T R A I N I N G M A N U A L
Elevators
An apartment or office building elevator is a made-to-order cage in which to
trap female victims. It is small, soundproof, confining, and can be halted
between floors for an unknown period of time.
• When entering an elevator, always stand next to the control panel.
Look for the emergency button.
• Do not get on an elevator occupied by a man (or men) who makes
you feel uneasy. If there are other passengers who get off the elevator
except for a man who makes you uneasy, get off with them and wait
for the next car.
• If you are alone on the elevator and a man or group of men get on and
you feel uncomfortable, get off. RESPOND TO GUT
REACTIONS. It is better to offend someone or even to look foolish
than to get raped.
• Allow other passengers to push the button for their floor first, then
push yours.
• If you suspect trouble, push the alarm button and as many buttons as
possible so that the elevator will quickly come to a halt at the next
floor.
Walking
How you look is important. An attacker usually expects a passive victim, so
if you walk slowly or in a daze, you will appear vulnerable. Walking at a
steady pace, looking confident, and knowing where you are going can make
a difference.
• Do not overload yourself with packages, a large purse, or books.
Pockets are more practical. Keep your hands free. (Most men on the
street have their hands free.)
• Wear shoes and clothes that you can run in if you need to. Tight pants
and long dresses make it difficult to move. Clogs and high-heeled
shoes should not be used if you are walking alone. Capes, scarves, and
long necklaces are easy to grab.
• Try to avoid walking alone at night. It is always best to work out
transportation with people you work with, are friends with, or with
whom you go out or to school.
• Walk only on busy, well-lighted streets. At night, do not walk through
dark parking lots, parks, or other places where people might hang out
or hide.
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